1. United States Service Academies – Basic Requirements  All qualified candidates must possess a strong desire to serve their country. The admissions process to each branch is an extensive and very competitive process. In order to apply an applicant must demonstrate:  Achievement in a rigorous academic program (at or near the top of their class)  High standardized test scores (SAT and/or ACT)  Strong leadership qualities/experience  Top physical condition with no medical limitations (sports participant)  High moral character  Graduates of all four academies receive a Bachelor of Science degree and are commissioned as officers in their respective service branch. In all cases, there is a service obligation of a minimum of five years

2. United States Service Academies – Steps in the Application Process  The application process for all academies begins NOW. It is an accelerated and prolonged process that is deadline sensitive.  Go to the Academy website(s) for instructions on how to apply  Contact your Admissions Representative (Liaison Officer)  Apply for a Congressional Nomination (not required for USCG)  Complete Medical Examination and Candidate Fitness Assessment  Complete all application materials  Meet ALL deadlines  Summer Leadership Academies

3. U.S. Military Academy at West Point  http://www.usma.edu/admissions/SitePages/Home.aspx

4. U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis  http://www.usna.edu/Admissions/index.php

5. U.S. Air Force Academy at Colorado Springs  http://www.academyadmissions.com/

6. U.S. Coast Guard Academy at New London  http://www.cga.edu/admissions/

7. Reserved Officer Training Corp (ROTC)  ROTC programs are offered at over 1,000 colleges in the US. Each service branch has its own program (not USCG), requirements and features. There are two ways to enter a college ROTC program:  Four-year ROTC scholarship recipients require application through the selected ROTC branch of service. The merit scholarship is given in exchange for a set commitment of service  ROTC college participants join the ROTC program at a campus as a freshman or sophomore, and participate in weekly ROTC classes and exercises in addition to a regular school schedule. Two or three year scholarships are offered in exchange for service upon graduation